Mater Dolorosa c. 17th century

Curator: A somber piece, isn't it? The etched lines capture an incredible depth of sorrow. Editor: Indeed. This is Robert Nanteuil's "Mater Dolorosa," a print residing here at the Harvard Art Museums. Nanteuil, born in 1623, was a master of portrait engravings, and this work exemplifies his technical skill. Curator: The texture of the veil is remarkable, achieved through such delicate variations in line weight. And that single tear—it draws the eye, doesn't it? The oval frame, too, focuses the composition effectively. Editor: The image of the Mater Dolorosa, the sorrowful mother, was incredibly potent in the 17th century. It served as a powerful devotional image, particularly in a time of religious and social upheaval. Nanteuil's print would have been circulated widely, shaping perceptions and eliciting empathy. Curator: One can see how the arrangement of light and shadow contributes to the emotional weight. A classic example of Baroque tenebrism, wouldn’t you say? Editor: Precisely. Its public role was to evoke feelings of repentance and devotion among those who viewed it. It is an interesting snapshot into the relationship between art and devotion. Curator: A compelling convergence of form and function. Editor: Absolutely, it allows us to view art in its role in history.